Re: MLB 2018.1: ...And The Nationals Will Not Make It Out of the First Round

First positive test result: 80 game suspension
Second positive test result: 162 game suspension (the entire season, including the postseason)
Third positive test result: lifetime ban from MLB

Players who test positive for either their first or second tests are given the option to appeal, in which scientific tests will be conducted to prove validity of test. Within that period of time, they are restricted from participation in all baseball activity. If an appeal is granted, the suspension may be reduced by 40 games for the first offense or 80 games for the second offense. There is no appeal for a third offense. All suspensions are without pay. In addition, a suspended player can be replaced on the active roster by another player. If a player is on the disabled list, the suspension is served while on the disabled list. Unless a suspension is reduced on appeal, a suspended player is not allowed to participate in that year's post-season even if his suspension ends before then.

Players who receive a lifetime ban after a third positive test may apply for reinstatement after one year and be eligible to be reinstated after two years. Jenrry MejŪa became the only player to be permanently banned under the drug policy on February 12, 2016.

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Re: MLB 2018.1: ...And The Nationals Will Not Make It Out of the First Round

Note on Cano: it isn't for a proper PED, but for what they term a masking agent, which is treated the same. The Independent analyst determined it was used to cheat the system (intent), though Cano states it was given to him by a licensed doctor in the Dominican Republic this past winter to treat a medical ailment.

Re: MLB 2018.1: ...And The Nationals Will Not Make It Out of the First Round

Originally Posted by Hammer

Like I said on another board. I don’t care who prescribed it. If I’m in his shoes, I’m checking with the MLBPA before I take a swig of Robitussin, let alone a prescription.

EDIT: This drug policy isn’t exactly new. The players know that they have the resources to check this stuff out. And if they don’t, it’s their own **** fault.

Yep. Olympians cry the same song, and they've been at it a lot longer with way more resources to make sure they get it right.

In Cano's case, I found it very interesting when I read that MLB was holding off on the penalty (they alerted Cano of the failed test at the beginning of the season), until they discovered intent. I don't know how they do that, but the fact they investigate it and are able to determine intent (assuming the investigation is all above board) is very telling (and ****ing) against the player.

And, the fact that Cano is not going to appeal it at all (and fully admits to it while still claiming some innocence) tells me they showed him the evidence, and he knows he doesn't have a snowball's chance in Hades.